Your dogs temperament should match yours. Don't choose a breed that is highly energetic if you're a couch potato. On the other hand, if you want a dog that will follow you everywhere around the house and who is always ready for a game of fetch or tug of war then you should consider a dog that is highly active and always has a lot of energy, instead of one of the lethargic breeds.
Most small dog breeds have bags of character, energy and endless love to give, and make for very good household pets. It is advisable to do some careful research, however, if you have small children or other pets, as not all small dog breeds get along with youngsters or other animals, although the majority will be fine with proper socialization. Many small dogs make ideal companions, and are well suited to apartment living because of their size. Many are also well suited as companions for the disabled or elderly as not all toy dogs require a large amount of exercise.
Dogs can either server as watch dogs or guard dogs. A watch dogs job is to bark and raise the alarm when a stranger enters your property. Many small dog breeds make great watch dogs. Whereas a guard dogs job is to look intimidating and protect his family if the situation arises.
Some dog breeds require lots of time that you will have to dedicate to groom and to exercise. Some dog breeds require little or no exercise but other dog breeds may require a walk three times every day. Please make sure you are making the right decision when you choose which dog breed is right for you. Browse our dog breeds pages below for each dog breed.
Varieties are created by genetic differences caused by mutation, followed by restrictions in breeding so that similar types mated together and had offspring of their type. In dogs, this has been greatly speeded by controlled cross- and in-breeding for commercial uses.
Puggles are cuteness personified. The cute quotient of this type of dog may be enough to convince many people that they want one of these hybrid dogs. Many people hear that they are hybrids of beagles and pugs, and expect that they will get basically either a pug or a beagle when they buy a one. Because of this expectation, many people are disappointed with their new puppies. Knowing how they differ from their parents, on both sides, can make your adoption process much easier, both on you and on the puppy.
Every dog is unique. They come in many shapes and sizes and being well informed on the different dog breeds attributes is crucial for any dog owner.
A lot of people feel very strongly that all dogs should live in the house, and just about any dog will do well inside if it's given enough exercise. If your dog will be spending a lot of time outside, you must consider your climate in choosing a breed--some cannot tolerate heat, others are equally incapable of being out in the cold. If your dog must live outside, be sure that it has adequate (enclosed, covered, maybe even heated) shelter, and make an extra effort to spend time with your dog. And don't expect your big, black, heavily coated Bernese Mountain Dog to live outside in the summer sun!
